This Cinnamon Apple Crisp is a warm, sweet treat that features tender apples and crunchy oats. The cinnamon adds a cozy flavor that makes every bite delightful!
It’s like a hug in a bowl! I love serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Honestly, what’s better than warm apple goodness with a little creamy chill? 🍏🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Use Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for their tartness and firmness. You can mix and match types, like adding some sweeter apples like Fuji for a balanced flavor.
Lemon Juice: This keeps the apples from browning and adds a bit of brightness. If you don’t have lemon, lime juice works too, or you could skip it if you’re in a pinch.
Granulated Sugar: This sweetens the filling. I sometimes substitute half with brown sugar for a deeper flavor. For a healthier option, try using maple syrup or honey, just adjust the amounts.
Rolled Oats: Old-fashioned oats give a great texture, but quick oats can work too. If you want a gluten-free version, look for certified gluten-free oats.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal for controlling saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, coconut oil or vegan butter can easily be substituted!
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Oat Topping?
The crisp topping is what makes this dish special! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Use cold butter and cut it into the dry ingredients. This helps create that nice crumbly texture.
- Don’t overwork the mixture; you want to see small clumps forming. These will crisp up beautifully in the oven.
- Spread the topping evenly, but let it be a bit uneven in patches for variety in texture.
Baking until golden brown ensures a crunchy topping, so keep an eye on it towards the end of baking. Serve it warm for the best experience!
How to Make Cinnamon Apple Crisp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Apple Filling:
- 6 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Crisp Topping:
- 3/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
For Serving:
- Vanilla ice cream, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Cinnamon Apple Crisp requires about 15 minutes of prep time and then around 40-45 minutes of baking. After it’s done, let it cool for a few minutes, and you’ll be ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot when your crisp is ready to go in.
2. Prepare the Apple Filling:
In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with the lemon juice, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Make sure the apples are well coated! Then, transfer this sweet mixture to a greased 8×8-inch baking dish.
3. Make the Crisp Topping:
In a separate bowl, mix together the rolled oats, flour, and brown sugar. Add the cold butter pieces into the mixture. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, work the butter into the dry ingredients until it forms crumbly pieces—these should be about the size of peas.
4. Assemble the Crisp:
Evenly spread the crumbly topping over the apple mixture in the baking dish. Don’t worry if it’s not perfectly even, a little unevenness adds to the charm!
5. Bake:
Pop the dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes. You’re looking for a golden brown topping and tender, bubbly apples. Your kitchen should smell amazing right about now!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve it warm, and if you like, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a delightful contrast to the warm crisp. You can also sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top if you’d like!
Enjoy this warm, cinnamon-spiced apple filling with the crispy topping—it’s pure comfort in every bite!
Can I Use Other Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great choices, you can use other varieties like Fuji, Gala, or Braeburn. Mixing different types can also add depth to the flavor!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through or microwave individual portions.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with a plant-based butter or coconut oil. For the ice cream, there are many delicious vegan options available that pair well with this crisp!
How Can I Make the Topping Crunchier?
For an extra crunchy topping, consider adding some chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, into the oat mixture. Just toast them lightly before mixing for enhanced flavor and crunch!
